Concessions and permits

Greater Wellington’s parks and forests provide numerous opportunities for recreation, tourism, education, conservation, interpretation and filming.  To manage these different activities and their effects, Greater Wellington operates a system of concessions and permits.

What is a concession?

A concession is an official authorisation for individuals or groups to carry out an activity or event within Greater Wellington's regional parks and forests that is over and above casual use, and which may have some impacts on the park or other users.

Applications for concessions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.  Should a concession be granted, it provides a:

• legal right to carry out an activity or event on lands owned and/or managed by Greater Wellington
• formal relationship between the concession holder and Greater Wellington, ensuring that both parties are aware of their obligations

Having a concession ensures that your event or activity does not clash with other events or activities, and that it goes ahead with Greater Wellington's support.

You will need a concession if your event or activity is commercial in nature or if there are more than 30 participants (more...)

Fees may be payable for commercial and non-commercial activities or events requiring a concession.

What is a permit?

Certain activities in the parks and forests require a permit (written permission).  They require permits because if they were not managed, these activities could adversely affect natural or cultural resources, or they could lead to conflicts between park users.

Examples of these activities include camping, hunting of introduced animals and trail biking.  Permits are usually issued unless the area or resource is already fully booked or allocated.

Fees are payable for some activities eg camping, collecting firewood.  Specific restrictions may apply  (more...)